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For rising actress Toluwani George, playing the role of young Tutunlade in the upcoming film The Benefactor marks more than just her entry into Nollywood’s big leagues — it is a personal triumph, a career breakthrough, and an experience she says has left her both proud and humbled.
Scheduled to hit cinemas nationwide on August 8th, 2025, The Benefactor is a gripping and emotional tale that explores the life of Tutunlade, a successful music star whose carefully crafted world begins to unravel when a long-buried past resurfaces. The film dives deep into themes of abuse, healing, and the fight for justice, told through the lens of one woman’s struggle to reclaim her voice and her truth. The adult Tutunlade is played by the widely beloved actress Bimbo Ademoye, while Toluwani George steps into the emotionally heavy role of her younger self — a task that would challenge even the most seasoned performer.
Speaking about the project, Toluwani confessed that learning she had been cast to portray the younger version of Bimbo Ademoye’s character initially came with a wave of self-doubt.
“When I found out I’d be playing young Tutunlade, I was excited, but also intimidated. I mean — Bimbo Ademoye! She’s so brilliant, and I really wanted to do justice to the character and match the emotional depth she brings to her roles,” Toluwani shared.
But instead of allowing the pressure to paralyze her, the young actress embraced the challenge, digging deep into the script and working closely with the director and cast to fully inhabit the role. For Toluwani, this wasn’t just acting — it was a process of emotional immersion.
“Tutunlade’s story is painful, raw, and very human,” she said. “Portraying the events that shaped her early life required me to go to some uncomfortable places emotionally. But I knew it was important to tell her story with honesty and heart. There were days I left set feeling heavy, but I also felt proud because I knew I was honoring real stories that deserve to be heard.”
Directed by @captaindegzy, The Benefactor is brought to life by a remarkable team of creatives. The story was conceived by @_folakemibello and written by the talented @temiloluwa_fosudo. The film boasts a star-studded cast including Kunle Remi, Akin Lewis, Tobi Makinde, Bimbo Manuel, Temiloluwa Fosudo, Aisha Lawal, Folakemi Bello, Kiitan Bukola, Joke Muyiwa, and Miwa Olorunfemi.
Despite being a newcomer, Toluwani George’s performance has already drawn early praise from those who have seen previews of the film. Many have commended her ability to convey vulnerability, strength, and youthful innocence — all within the confines of an emotionally charged storyline.
“I think what really helped me was understanding that young Tutunlade isn’t just a ‘younger version’ of the adult character — she’s a fully formed person with her own feelings, fears, and dreams. That perspective helped me step into her shoes with empathy,” she explained.
For Toluwani, The Benefactor is more than just a debut; it’s a statement of intent — a promise of the kind of roles she hopes to continue taking on: layered, meaningful, and resonant.
“I’m incredibly thankful to the entire team for trusting me with this role,” she said. “To be introduced to audiences through such a powerful story is something I’ll always carry with pride.”
With her breakout performance in The Benefactor, Toluwani George not only announces her arrival in the industry — she does so with grace, grit, and undeniable talent. As audiences prepare to watch her on the big screen this August, one thing is certain: a new star has truly been born.
Watch her speak below…
#ToluwaniGeorge
#TheBenefactor
#NewMovie
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